Erik is a 2014 SouthCoast Emerging Leader Nominee recognized for the passion, advocacy, and commitment he brings to the SouthCoast Community. This recognition was given to Erik by a collaborative panel consisting of The SouthCoast Media Group, New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Leadership SouthCoast, Charlton College of Business at the University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth, SouthCoast Business Bulletin and South Coast Young Professionals Network.

Erik has presented nationally and internationally touring the Islands of Cabo Verde, Africa. With experience performing at music & poetry venues, college campuses, slam poetry competitions, high schools, community organizations, conferences, cultural festivals, rallies, and protests for intimate gathering and large showcases with audiences of 3,000 plus. Some highlight performances include: